Abdul Raheem says party will determine future political context and gear up for 2028

People’s National Congress (PNC) Chairperson Abdul Raheem Abdulla says the Maldives’ future political landscape will be shaped by the ruling party, and that the goal is to secure the 2028 presidential election with greater ease than the last one.

Speaking at the PNC Congress 2026 on Tuesday evening, Abdul Raheem said the country’s development and progress are closely tied to the PNC’s policies.

“Our work has only just begun. We must aim to win the 2028 presidential election even more easily than we won in 2023.”

He said the PNC can deliver the peace, security and stability Maldivians seek under the policies of the current President, and that he intends to conclude the congress “with sleeves rolled” to begin preparations for the next election.

Abdul Raheem said peace must return to the country and that Maldives should continue on a path of development. He said people must be given the chance to live in peace and be made prosperous, something he believes requires continuity in leadership.

“These goals can only be achieved when one leader remains in power for at least ten years.”

He said political parties exist to govern and, when not in power, to hold the government accountable.

“We are political workers. Parties are formed to rule, and when not in government, to hold those in power accountable. That is the core purpose.”

He said Maldivians want to move forward freely and develop under the shelter of Islam, which they embraced 900 years ago, and that the PNC is capable of ensuring this.

Abdul Raheem said political work cannot be done from home, but by going out, visiting islands, meeting people and showing kindness.

“Political work is done on the streets, in the islands, with the people. A politician must never be arrogant. We must be able to speak with anyone, listen to anyone, and sit at the table with anyone.”

He said the party is already seeing results, with membership rising from 3,000 to 80,000. He added that President Muizzu had proposed holding seminars at the atoll level.

The PNC is currently the largest political party in the Maldives. It was originally formed within the PPM to carry out former President Abdulla Yameen’s political activities. After the 2023 presidential election, President Muizzu left the party and formed a new political party, the PNF.